We, as human beings, have been making excuses since we were children. Excuses for not doing our homework, excuses for making mistakes, excuses for forgetting chores, and the list goes on. One would think that this pattern of behaviour ceases when we become adults. Enter the excuses to neglect ones health. Here I will outline common excuses and some tips that can help you overcome these all too familiar hurdles.
DILEMMA NO.01
I don't know how to start. Particularly with all the conflicting information out there.
This excuse has some merit in that it is absolutely true. Don’t cut the cake and start celebrating just yet! This is just a hurdle. Look for credible sources and journal articles for matters that you find confusing, but in the meantime, here are some guidelines.
Eat real food. By real I mean food that is naturally occurring in nature. Vegetables, meat, fruit, nuts. Anything else should be eaten in moderation (if at all) and DO NOT follow anything that is too strict and regulated as this could lead to falling off the wagon.
DILEMMA NO.02
I always end up cheating so what's the point?
You’re cheating because having had a bad diet for so long can lead to an irregularity with your hormones. Particularly the ones controlling your appetite. Avoid processed sugar and carbohydrates such as bread and pasta (unless wholemeal) and you’ll know when you are hungry, because well…you’ll be hungry. No hormones confusing your appetite and telling you to eat all the time.
DILEMMA NO.03
I don't have time to train!
This is one of my favourites. Whether it requires you to set your alarm to get up an hour earlier or squeezing a session in after work when you really can’t be bothered. If your desire to feel good and look good exceeds is strong enough then you will make the necessary sacrifices. A one hour workout is 4% of your day, and you don’t have to train everyday, so in reality it’s even less. Particularly if you decide to train at home and not travel to use a gym. No excuses.
DILEMMA NO.04
Dieting is boring!
You’re right. They were about a decade ago. No we have more fat free, sugar free, gluten free choices than we have time to eat. Even if these conveniences were not available, lets not forget how colourful fresh herbs and spices can make food look and taste. With no consequence to your waistline!
DILEMMA NO.05
I'll start Monday...
Ahhh…magic monday. Believe it or not, eating well and exercising is just as beneficial on every other day as it is on Monday. If you decide to commit to a healthy lifestyle, do so immediately. No procrastinating. A day delayed is a day wasted.
There you have it. Excuses and, more importantly, how you can take charge and be proactive towards achieving a healthier you. Spend less time justifying why you can’t and more time enjoying the repercussions of why you can.
The #DietDoctor,
Moodi Dennaoui
#countnutrientsnotcalories